Usage Strategies to Increase the Socioeconomic Sustainability of Monumental Structures: The Example of the Hacı Ali Ağa Bath

Abstract

This study aims to identify tourism usage strategies for the protection and socioeconomic sustainable development of monumental structures that maintain their functional continuity. The results revealed that some strategies provide significant opportunities in socioeconomic terms if they maintain a structure’s original function; however, some uses pose a significant threat in the case of functional continuity. The main contribution of this work is the definition of monumental structures in relation to adaptive reuse and strategic planning tools (SWOT). The spatial and functional change of the Hacı Ali Ağa Bath was examined chronologically in the first stage. An external expert group determined 41 factors consisting of functional, social, and economic return concepts revealed by the literature review in the second stage. These factors were then evaluated by internal experts using SWOT analyses. The structure’s formation since 2006 was revealed through analysis. The cultural heritage significance of the hammam culture is the function determined as the strength, whereas the functional changes were determined as the weakness. The building became idle due to the pandemic, thus bringing this situation to light. The importance of the original function was placed on the agenda by the general administration, which is regarded as a prominent opportunity to conduct an assessment. The inability of all functions to establish a relationship with tourism has been recognized as a significant threat. Strong opportunities, strong threats, and usage strategies are provided for monumental structures that maintain their functional continuity.